The Kiawah Conservancy is a chartered non-profit, Section 501(c)(3), grassroots organization that was established by Island residents in 1997, to preserve the natural habitat of Kiawah Island. The Conservancy has the capability to be a holder of land and conservation easements, and as such, it acts as a land trust. In this regard, the Kiawah Conservancy is a member of the Land Trust Alliance and has adopted and subscribes to the Land Trust Standards and Practices as a guide for its organization and operations. Since its inception in 1997, the Kiawah Conservancy has preserved 52 properties that total over 2,273 acres of pristine barrier island habitat.